ok to use constant on 12volt for power

[nik]

is it mandatory to use a switchable 12volt for power? the unit comes with a on/off rocker switch so why cant a constant 12v be used . my install would be esaier this way.

thanks
nik

[subaru4wd]

It is not mandatory to use switched 12 v, but if you forget to turn it off it will continue to operate, bad for battery and for some alarm systems.
It is very easy to find a switched power source:
1. locate one in the fuse box.
2. locate power source for stereo
3. locate one behind the steering wheel

[omnicide]

Does anybody know what the power consumption of the blinder m-20 is when it is on stand-by (i.e. green LED, not firing)? I was wanted to hook it up on the constant on 12v for a different reason. The self-test beep is very loud at ignition and 30 seconds later. I'm used it to it but it startles everyone else who rides in the car. I would rather just leave it on. I have a regular car battery now but I could get a deep discharge battery if I needed it to support this. I think if the power consumption on the m-20 is less than 150 mw my current battery should be ok for two weeks.

[subaru4wd]

This is a spec of a regular 5mm led.
The Power Dissipation is 120mW as you can see, add to that a minimal "keep alive currrent" for the Blinder and you will exceed 150mw I think.


Spec Value
Product ID L2-0-R5TH20-1
Angle 20
Package 5mm
Peak Wavelength in nm 630
Luminous Intensity 10000mcd typ. @ 20mA
Max Forward Current 30mA
Max Forward Current Pulse 150mA for <= 0.1ms, duty <= 1/10
Forward Voltage 2.2V typ. 2.8V max @ 20mA
Max Reverse Voltage 5V
Power Dissipation 120mW
Operating Temp -40 to +85 C
Soldering Temp 260 C for 5 secs
Max Reverse Current 10uA